Sensations of Lyon & Provence

The Sensations of Lyon & Provence River Cruise – Explore the Rhône on-board Emerald Liberté. A river cruise is the perfect way to explore the culture, history and beauty of this incredible part of the world, transporting you through the nation’s unspoiled beauty spots and culture-rich cities. An Emerald Waterways river cruise will take you to the very heart of France, via the Rhône.

The Sensations of Lyon & Provence River Cruise

Built specifically for the Sensations of Southern France river cruise, Emerald Liberté skilfully navigate the rivers Rhône & Saône. Mirroring the effortless sophistication and beauty of the French countryside she navigates, Emerald Liberté offers an authentic experiences throughout the heart of France.

Mirroring the effortless sophistication and beauty of the French countryside, this beautiful ship offers locally-sourced, authentic fine-dining to be paired with the perfect wine accompaniment by our on-board sommeliers, a level of service and attention-to-detail which is sewn into its very essence, providing an experience comparable to that of a world-class hotel.

With a capacity of 138 guests, and a series of cutting-edge amenities, Emerald Liberté represents the next generation of river cruising. The suites, staterooms and public spaces are set across four beautifully-appointed decks, providing endless scope for relaxation and enjoyment whilst cruising.

The Sensations of Lyon & Provence River Cruise

The ship will explore culturally-rich and enigmatic cities before dissecting the wine regions and charming Mediterranean settlements of France. The Mediterranean climate provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the amenities of the Sun Deck, where you can sit back and relax or sink a few balls on the putting green. While the heated pool boasts a glass roof which is retractable to let in a cool breeze on a warm day. And, we’ve incorporated the hugely popular Horizon Bar & Lounge, offering the perfect setting for you to enjoy your favourite tipples.

During days on the water, you can indulge in a little ‘me’ time aboard the Emerald Liberté, with a skilled hairdresser on the Riviera Deck, spa facilities and a well-equipped gym in the wellness and fitness area. Find your centre and feel thoroughly relaxed from start to finish.

Itinerary

Welcome to Lyon. You will be met at the airport and transferred to the ship where you will be welcomed by your Captain and crew. Tonight, enjoy a welcome reception and dinner on board. Meals Included: Dinner

Chalon–Sur–Saône is best known as the birthplace of photography and the centre of Burgundy’s wine region. Travel by road to the quaint village of Beaune, where we visit the Hospices de Beaune, one of the finest examples of French fifteenth–century architecture. Marvel at the multi–coloured roofs of this former hospital, now a museum, which has become one of the symbols of Burgundy. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lyon is France’s third largest city, a former Roman capital positioned at the conference of the Rhone and Saone rivers, which is steeped in history. Today be part of the guided tour of Lyon, which starts with a drive to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, Lyon’s hilltop church, with stunning views over the town. Then, pass by the recently re–discovered Roman amphitheatre and walk through the cobbled streets of the gastronomic old town including the secret laneways. Alternatively, join a guided bike tour of Lyon. EmeraldACTIVE: Guided Bike Tour DiscoverMORE: Tour to Perouges (extra expense) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Join your local guide for a walking tour of Tournon, which is dominated by the 16th century castle and roman ruins, and is nestled in the valley near the steep slopes of le Massif Central, France's 3rd largest mountain range. The area has a long tradition in wine making, including the renowned wine growing centre of Tain l'Hermitage across the river. EmeraldACTIVE: Guided active walk through vineyards EmeraldPLUS: Regional wine lecture on board EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike tour to Glun Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arrive in Viviers, a town which still has a lot of flare. Viviers is also the home of one of France’s oldest cathedrals, join an included city tour exploring all the architectural heritage of this quaint town. EmeraldPLUS: Cheese and olive tasting on board DiscoverMORE: Tour to Grignan (extra expense) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Avignon has a rich history from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of the Popes and later central to the French Revolution. Although a fortified town, it is the Papal Palace which stands more secure on a hill in the centre of town; its walls are 17–18 feet thick. Your guided walk with a local guide takes you through this historic centre with its cobbled laneways and shops, overlooking the famous 'Pont d’Avignon'. The rest of the day is at leisure. EmeraldACTIVE: Guided active hike in Avignon EmeraldACTIVE: Yoga Lesson on Board EmeraldPLUS: Provençale dinner hosted by local Chef Fabien Morreale DiscoverMORE: Excursion to Pont du Gard (extra expense) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Sail into Arles where you will join your local guide for a walking tour showcasing the highlights of the city in particular the 2000-year-old Roman Amphitheatre still in use today, which was originally built to hold 20,000 spectators in the style of the Colosseum in Rome. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax on board and explore Arles further. DiscoverMORE: Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense) Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner